Table of Contents
Fishing with Friends or Family?
Both have their unique ways of celebrating; fishing with friends can be more enjoyable, such as coming together to decide on a destination, hitting the road for a long drive, and spending time in quiet nature or on a remote island, away from the hustle and bustle.
While you enjoy the get-together, it also gives you an opportunity, whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, to learn from each other the required techniques and strategies for fishing.
Fishing with friends keeps you going, making some lasting memories, whether you catch your fish or not; the time spent together and the camaraderie go a long way.
Fishing with family offers a lot of excitement and thrill since everyone drives and enjoys the activity; imagine all family members standing parallel across the shoreline with a fishing rod waiting for the catch.
Fishing unites the family in a stronger bond in many ways, be it preparedness for the fishing expedition, the travel, or the adventure as it unfolds.
Today’s families move in a fast-moving environment without having much time for each other
What is the best way to come together with the family to fish across the riverside or a body of water?
Undoubtedly, fishing is one of the best recreational activities for bringing a family together.
Families often clubbed fishing and camping, staying together amid nature, ensuring water bodies and lakes nearby, and enjoying both.
The fishing trip becomes more exciting when you stay together in an RV, allowing everyone to settle down comfortably with plenty of space to offer, and cook your catch right at the campsite.
Having an RV around makes things more enjoyable, whether with friends or family, as it gives you fast and easy access to fishing spots and lets you camp nearby.
It is time to dive deep to catch a fish…
Types Of Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Freshwater fishing is one of the most popular types, with more than 42 million participants in the USA and growing.
As the name suggests, freshwater fishing is fishing in water without any salt content and is not seawater.
Some ideal spots for freshwater fishing are ponds, lakes, reservoirs, streams, and rivers.
Beginners highly like freshwater fishing because of the higher accessibility of the fishing spots nearby.
Smallmouth bass, trout, panfish, perch, and salmon are some of the best freshwater fish species.
However, different fish species operate in various water temperatures and oxygen levels, such as cold, cool, and warm water. If you are up to catch any specific type of fish, you have to hunt for the exact spot.
Some of the fish species found in Coldwater are salmon, trout, and Garibaldi. Whereas you can look for Gold Barb, Pearl danio in cool water, and preferably Angelfish, betta Fish, neon tetra & Swordtails in warm water.
Types Of Freshwater Fishing
Lake Fishing
Lake fishing is one form of freshwater fishing and undoubtedly one of the best places to start fishing because of its diverse environment, which offers varying structures and depths, creating a great place for the fish to live and move around.
I am sure you must know that there are two types of lakes, Natural & Man-made lakes, which offer freshwater fishing environments.
Natural Lakes
Natural lakes can vary from small mountain lakes to large fixed bodies of water on the earth’s surface, from small rocky areas to submerged vegetation.
While these lake occurrences are formed naturally, sometimes out of melted glaciers or volcanic activity, such as a volcanic eruption or the collapse of a volcano.
Natural lakes are also formed when a river is cut off from its regular flow, creating a new channel that leaves isolated water bodies to become a lake.
While fishing in natural lakes, you can look for accessibility along the shores, preferably with vegetation, for a better catch. you can also try fishing from docks, rock piles, and even from a boat, depending on the targeted fish, like Bass, trout, Panfish, and northern pike.
While choosing the best lure makes it easier for lake fishing, you should pick the best bait depending on the type of fish you are chasing for the day. while a spoon is the best lure for catching a lake trout around vegetation, likely the spinnerbaits are effective in attracting the bass.
Selecting the right lures, size, and color of the lure remarkably increases your success in catching your targeted fish.
While lake fishing, the key approach is to identify rocky areas, ledges, or preferably lakes with vegetation where more nod fish are likely to gather, with an option to cover and hide themselves.
Lastly, before heading into lake fishing, ensure to be equipped with the best fishing gear,
Depending on your experience and the fish you are targeting for the day.
Some of the Best Natural lakes in the USA are
Lake Erie (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York)
As the world’s Walleye capital, Lake Erie provides excellent fishing throughout the year; depending on the region, different species have different seasons.
Best fish to catch in Lake Erie – Walleye, Yellow Perch, Smallmouth Bass, Steelhead (Rainbow Trout)
Nearby Places to Visit in Lake Erie – Niagara Falls Tour, Winery Tours,
Best experiences nearby in Lake Erie
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Erie
Lake Okeechobee (Florida)
The best part of Lake Okeechobee is open for all year-round fishing
Best fish to catch in Lake Okeechobee – Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Catfish
Things to do in Lake Okeechobee – Airboat adventure tour, Okeechobee Airboat Rides, Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Okeechobee
Lake Champlain (Vermont/New York)
Lake Champlain is open for year-round fishing.
Best fish to catch in Lake Champlain -Trout, Salmon, Northern Pike, Crappie, and Yellow Perch
Things to do in Lake Champlain – Guided Walking Tour of Burlington, Burlington Bash Scavenger Hunt, Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Champlain
Clear Lake (California)
Clear Lake offers fishing year-round, with specific species seasons like large-mouth bass in spring and early summer
Best fish to catch in Clear Lake – Crappie, Bluefish, Catfish
Things to do in Clear Lake – Boating, Kayaking & Paddleboarding, Relax at Clear Lake State Park, Great Place for Families, RV travelers, and nature watchers
Best Hotels to Stay in Clear Lake
Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
One of the best things about Lake Tahoe is that it offers fishing opportunities throughout the entire year.
Best fish to catch in Lake Tahoe – Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Brown Trout
Things to do in Lake Tahoe – Scenic Sunset Cruise Tour, Wine Tasting Boat Tour, Lakeside Electric Bike Tour, Lake Tahoe Half-day photographic scenic tour
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Tahoe
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is open for fishing throughout the year, along with sporting activities.
Best fish to catch in Lake Michigan – Bass, Trout, Salmon, Walleye, steelhead, and perch
Things to do in Lake Michigan – Chicago River cruise, Chicago History and Architecture cruise, A Romantic Journey Through Milwaukee, Lakefront bike tour, Old-Milwaukee-guided-e-bike-tour
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Michigan
Mille Lacs Lake (Minnesota)
Mille Lacs Lake’s fishing season starts from 10th May 2025 till 30th November 2025, with a varying season for different species.
Best Fish to Catch in Mille Lacs Lake –
Walleyes (May -Nov) – The most popular catch in Mille Lacs Lake
Largemouth Bass – (May – February 22nd, 2026)
Northern Pike – (May – Mar 31 2026)
Muskie – (June 7 – Dec 1)
Yellow Perch, Tullibee & Burbot – Year-round
Things to do in Mille Lacs Lake – Some of the best things to offer include Boating, water sports, Hiking, Biking, and camping with private RV resorts with great places to visit nearby Minneapolis
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Mille Lacs
Man-Made Lakes
Man-made lakes are often created by damming rivers in the process of building a dam across a river to control the flow of water, which often results in creating a reservoir or a large natural or artificial lake to be used as a source of water supply.
Sometimes man-made lakes are also formed by digging land for large engineering works or from mining activity.
You will find the water level in man-made lakes is a bit fluctuating, so primarily you have to focus on creek edges, drop-offs, and ledges because of their varied water depths.
you will find a large gathering of fish near these spots as they offer both food and cover close by.
Ensure you are equipped with the best lake fishing gear and make use of appropriate baits and lures that can go down the drop off and work on the bottom in luring a largemouth bass, a catfish, or a trout.
Some of the Best Man-Made lakes in the USA are
Lake Guntersville (Alabama)
Lake Guntersville is open for fishing throughout the year, with summer and spring offering more productive seasons for fishing opportunities
Best fish to catch in Lake Guntersville – Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, Catfish
Things to do in Lake Guntersville – Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures, Water activities, Hiking & Biking
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Guntersville
Shasta Lake (California)
Fishing season on Shasta Lake is open year-round, with peak seasons for various species.
Best Fish to catch in Shasta Lake – Trout, Bass, Brown Trout, King Salmon
Things to do in Shasta Lake – Self-guided Scavenger Hunt, water sports, Hiking & Biking
Best Hotels to stay in Shasta Lake
Lake Lanier (Georgia)
Lake Lanier is considered one of the preferred destinations for fishing, and it is open throughout the year for fishing.
Best Fish to Catch in Lake Lanier – Striped bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish
Things to do in Lake Lanier – Georgia Aquarium, Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise, Coffee Elevato – The Experience
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Lanier
Table Rock Lake (Missouri)
Table Rock Lake is open for fishing year-round and is a popular destination for a diverse range of fishing activities.
Best Fish to Catch in Table Rock Lake – bass, crappie, white bass, bluegill, and catfish
Things to do in Table Lake Rock Lake – Branson: Table Rock Lake and Baird Mountain Jeep Tour, Copperhead Mountain Coaster, Branson: Off Road Adventure Guided Trip, Ultimate Ozark Discovery Tour
Best Hotels to stay in Table Rock Lake
Lake Mead (Nevada/Arizona)
Lake Mead offers opportunities for fishing year-round, with a specific season for various species
Best Fish to Catch in Lake Mead – Striped Bass, Bluegill and Green Sunfish, Black Crappie, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
Things to do in Lake Mead – Hoover Dam Highlights Tour from Las Vegas, Emerald Cave Kayak Adventure, Hoover Dam Raft Float Half-Day Tour from Las Vegas, Half-Day Willow Beach Kayak Tour with Pick Up
Best Hotels to Stay in Lake Mead
Lake Fork (Texas)
Lake Fork offers fishing year-round, with some species productive in particular months.
Best Fish to Catch in Lake Fork – Largemouth bass, Crappie, Catfish & Bluegill,
Lake Fork is especially famous for some large largemouth bass and is mainly productive
during the spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) months
Things to do in Lake Fork – Hiking & Birdwatching, Enjoy camping at places like Patriot RV Park,
and enjoy Coffee Creek Landing Marina
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Fork
Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma offers a year-round fishing destination; however, the best seasons vary for different species, especially its big catch, the Striped Bass’s best season falls in (April-October)
Check the fishing guidelines and obtain a mandatory fishing license for those 17 years and above.
Best Fish to Catch in Lake Texoma – Striped Bass, Crappie, Catfish, Smallmouth Bass
Things to do in Lake Texoma – A great place for outdoor activities, camping, hiking, Birdwatching, Watersports, and RV camping in Lake Texoma State Park
Best Hotels to stay in Lake Texoma
Fishing Rods
The approach to choosing the best fishing rods for freshwater fishing depends on factors like fishing techniques, targeted fish, and the location. Your fishing rod should be flexible enough to allow a fish to spin after a catch, and at the same time, should be strong enough to hold on against the fight of a caught fish.
Spinning Rods
You will find the spinning rods range in between 5-8.5 feet in length, usually made up from graphite or fiberglass, and well balanced between sturdiness and flexibility. Spinning rods’ handles were often equipped with cork or PVC foam to have a better grip and comfort while having a lengthy fishing session.
Fiberglass Fishing Rods
Known for their flexibility and robustness, Fiberglass rods are capable of handling heavy catches and work perfectly with Jerk baits, crankbaits, reaction baits & and treble hooks as the rod bends near the handle and allowing the fish to pull further and the hook to go deeper.
River Fishing
River fishing is often considered a relaxed way of fishing due to its lively environment and diverse fish species. More importantly, you won’t need any expensive gear to start in river fishing, and it is often considered the best fishing spot for beginners for a catch.
Some of the common targeted fish species that river fishing provides are trout, bass, catfish, spike, salmon, tarpon, carp, tigerfish, and many more…
Fishing Techniques
While in river fishing, you must consider the fact that a fish will try to get rid of the fast-moving current of the river as well as cover itself from predators.
look out for underwater vegetation, low-hanging branches touching water, as well as sunken trees, which are some ideal places for cover from birds and predators and often come with shade.
try finding calm waters and back waters as and when the current of the water in a river gets high, it’s difficult for a fish to feed itself, and move themselves into still water, hence you should try your luck in calm water, simultaneously have an eye on drop-offs in the river a good place for bait fish to assemble for a quick catch as well their chasing predators are not far away.
Types of River Fishing
Fishing From A River Bank
Fishing from the river banks is the first thing that you picture when you think of river fishing, and you are right if you are thinking of a calm & relaxed fishing over the weekend, then the river banks are the right place to start your fishing.
While the common technique includes fishing with lures or bait, fly fishing and spinning are extremely popular, where the lure is being adjusted by the angler to move with the current of the water naturally; however, the fishing technique, bait & equipment depend on the type of fish you are after.
River fishing is more about relaxation, so consider carrying a folded chair for sitting and enjoying the picturesque surroundings while fishing.
Wade Fishing
Wade fishing is another exciting way of fishing, where you surround yourself with nature, standing up to waist-deep in the water for a catch. wade fishing is productive, however, it requires much preparation and the right equipment, like waders, for keeping you dry as you move through the water along with a strong fishing rod.
While wade fishing is a great outdoor activity but ensure to have no compromise on safety and precautionary measures.
Make sure to stay alert to your environment, like the current and depth of water, sometimes rocks, and floating branches or logs. ideally, these are the spots for your targeted species where fish congregate for food and cover
Ensure you are wearing your life jacket all the time and avoid going deep in water more than to your waist. wade fishing is filled with fun and productive if all necessary safety precautions are followed and not ignored.
Fly Fishing
River Fly fishing involves using artificial flies as lures and can be used to catch fish in freshwater.
The technique of fly fishing is a bit challenging, with the fly cast into the water using specific gear like a rod, reel, and a heavy line.
With fly fishing, the trick is to catch fish by using artificial flies instead of baits & and lures are made to imitate invertebrates and small bait fish. You will even find flies that mimic mice and ducks
This practice is effective with targeted species like trout, salmon, and bass, and can be done from a boat, the shores, and also while wading.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is popular, especially in colder regions and northern states, where fishing is done by drilling holes in the ice of frozen lakes, ponds, and rivers and dropping a line through it.
Ideally, anglers use specialized tools, such as an ice auger or chisel, to drill holes in the frozen water bodies.
Fishing is typically done with the help of a light ice fishing rod and jigs or lures, targeting species such as trout, Salmon, Perch, and Pike.
Ice fishing is a great outdoor recreational activity to enjoy in groups, whether with friends or family, and it can be challenging due to winter’s extreme conditions.
While on ice fishing, you should be careful about staying safe and check the ice fishing safety and ice thickness guidelines before going out.
Advisable to have an ice fishing suit and an Ice Fishing Tent to make ice fishing more thrilling and enjoyable.
Kayak Fishing
Kayak fishing is becoming immensely popular, and fishing techniques include kayaking as a means of transport to reach fishing spots.
The kayaking enables the anglers to paddle the kayaks or sit inside or on the top of the kayak and steer through the rivers, lakes, ponds, or coastal water in search of fish.
Kayak fishing allows you to stay connected with nature and enjoy fishing while paddling; it also offers good exercise.
Kayak fishing is primarily effective in still waters where fish are usually active and spooked
You can target some of the best fish species while kayak fishing, like trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, panfish in freshwater, tarpon, red drum, and seatrout in saltwater.
Salt Water Fishing
Saltwater fishing offers a unique experience of fishing in saltwater, primarily in the Sea and Ocean.
Its wide range of marine life ranges from small catches like baitfish, snappers, and groupers to large catches like swordfish, tuna, and sharks.
Saltwater fishing demands different strategies and techniques, and is thrilling because of its diverse and challenging species.
The excitement of saltwater fishing in a coastal, picturesque location and the never-ending chase to catch a large saltwater fish is always fulfilling.
Types of Saltwater Fishing
Surf Fishing
Surf fishing can be done while standing on the shoreline, on a pier, or from jetties, casting your hook and bait into the surf zone.
Surf fishing is a great way to kick-start your fishing journey with your friends and family and can be enjoyed by both you, a rookie, or an expert in fishing.
Surf fishing gear
Surf fishing becomes more exciting once you have the right gear and apparel.
You have different challenges and water conditions while surf fishing; hence, the gear has to be equally robust and should be able to adapt to saltwater environments.
Pier Fishing
Pier fishing is the habit of fishing from a pier with easy access to deep waters without the help of a boat. A pier is a platform ideally made from timber, concrete composite materials, with the structure extending from the shore into deep waters.
Pier fishing comes with an advantage because fishing from certain heights enables one to spot a variety of fish more quickly and also helps in longer casts into the water
Bay Fishing
Bay fishing refers to fishing in coastal water bodies, reefs, hills, and shallows; bays are enclosed and ideally connected to the main body of water.
Bay fishing is extremely popular because of its unique environment, where the saltwater mixes with the freshwater and is treated as one of the preferred spots where you will find a variety of saltwater fish.
Backwater & Flats Fishing
Backwater fishing is a type of fishing that occurs in shallow coastal waters, typically done from a flat or skiff boat.
In inshore saltwater areas, such as side channels, inlets, and mangroves, you will find locations where water movement is often slow and stagnant.
You will find a variety of species, like common snook flounder and spotted sea trout.
Backwater fishing is an ideal recreational activity for a small group of friends and families, and is always close to land.
Deep Sea Fishing
Deep-sea fishing is not everyone’s cup of tea; if you are geared up for some challenges and hard fights, you should look forward to deep-sea fishing
Deep-sea fishing activity is conducted in an open ocean away from the shore, and fishing takes place at least 100 feet (around 30 meters) deep in water and can go up 200 to 2000 meters, often referred to as large game or offshore fishing.
Deep-sea fishing requires a robust fishing rod and a strong electric reel, as the catch will be bigger.
Deep-sea fishing is not advised for early anglers without the guidance of an expert and is best suited for seasoned players, as fishing is out in the ocean away from the shore.
You can target some of the best species like tuna, sharks, swordfish, marlin, snapper, and groupers
Kite fishing
As the name suggests, kite fishing is the same as fishing with kites.
You will fly a unique kite, like in childhood, where fishing lines are attached
with clips to the kite ropes.
For kite fishing, you will require a combo of both a sturdy and flexible rod and a powerful electric reel for handling a large fish.
The baits from your kite will move naturally on the water’s surface and lure and encourage the fish, and once the fish bites the bait, you will find your kite going down drastically, indicating to the angler to reel in the line.
Kite fishing is extremely popular in Florida and is gaining momentum nationwide.
and is believed to have originated from the Polynesian island.
Kite fishing provides access to a vast stretch of water and inaccessible areas that seem difficult to reach.
Kite fishing is favored mainly by anglers in saltwater with a view to a big catch.
Some popular kite fishing species you can target are sailfish, wahoo, and Mahi Mahi.
Trolling
Trolling is one of the most popular types of fishing with unique fishing techniques where one or more fishing lines are baited with lures or bait fish and are moved through the water behind a moving boat, canoe, or any other type of watercraft.
Trolling is exciting and requires attention, where the depth and speed of the lure depend on the types of fish targeted.
Trolling requires special types of rods, usually between 5-7 feet long, to handle the challenge of catching bigger fish.
Key Essentials for a Fishing Trip
If you want your fishing trip to be successful and memorable, let’s ensure all check boxes are tick-marked before heading for a fishing trip.
Fishing license
A must, as required by the state or the region, ensure to complete the paperwork, which can be done both online and offline
When purchasing a fishing license online, always visit the official website of your state’s wildlife or fish and game agency to ensure a valid and secure transaction.
Be sure to check the weather conditions ahead of time and verify if a permit is required, as many national parks mandate them for fishing
Fishing Gear & Equipment
Rods & Reels – Ensure they are tidy and hell-bent for a good catch
Fishing Line – Pick a suitable line for the targeted fish, along with a spare one
Tackle & Lure – Try gathering a variety of lures, floats, and weights required for a variety of species
Fishing Tool Kit
Line cutters or scissors – required for cutting fishing line
Pliers – needed for removing hooks from fish
Knife – For cleaning fish and cutting bait
Bait Bucket & live well – In case of using live bait and ensure enough storage of bait
Tackle Box – Always helpful for easy access
Safety Gear
Communication equipment – Ensure carrying a Phone, radio, or satellite device, especially if fishing is in a remote location
Life Jackets – in case of fishing on a boat
First Aid kit -Always better to have it handy
Personal Items for protection
Protection from the Sun – a cap, a hat, a Pack of sunscreen, sunglasses
Gloves – For Managing fish
Portable Chairs & Camping Table – for a comfortable seat
Clothing – check the weather and dress accordingly, carry rain gear, waterproof jackets & footwear, and waders in case of shore fishing
Food and Water – Try getting enough food and water for the trip
While a fishing trip can be exciting, be sure to check the area before planning the trip to avoid any restrictions, such as seasonal closures, catch limits, and hazards like wildlife, rocks, or shallow areas. Check into all necessary precautions before starting your trip.
Fishing with an RV
Want to make your trip more comfortable and memorable?
Consider renting an RV, as many fishing spots offer RV campgrounds.
The RV comes with the comforts of home, like the option of cooking your food, taking a shower, and taking a nap as and when required.
RV gives you quick access to fishing spots, which is helpful for early morning or late-night fishing. With an RV, you are mobile to cover a larger no of fishing spots, lakes, or rivers in a single trip.
RV also offers you the flexibility to extend your stay in case of a change of plan.
Some of the best RVs suited for a fishing trip are a campervan, a Travel Trailer, a truck camper, or a Class C for a group of friends or a family fishing trip.
Conclusion
Finally, it’s a wrap.
Fishing helps you connect with nature and create memories and framing moments, along with friends and family. It teaches you patience, reduces stress, and provides quality time to spend together.
More importantly, it also allows you to slow down from your busy schedule and touch the calmness of water and enjoy a slow fishing day.
Finally, fishing is about more than catching a fish; it’s about creating some fond memories and a story to tell and cherish back home forever.
So, what are you waiting for?
Time to grab your fishing gear & tackle box for a memorable fishing trip.